The right sand-to-cement ratios for plaster, mortar and screed.
Too much cement cracks, too little is weak. Here are the standard sand-to-cement ratios South African builders use for each job.
| Job | Sand : Cement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Plaster | 4–5 : 1 | + lime for workability |
| Bricklaying mortar | 5–6 : 1 | soft, plastic mix |
| Floor screed | 3–4 : 1 | strong, low water |
Why builders choose us
- Plaster ~5:1 with lime
- Mortar ~6:1
- Screed ~4:1
- Lime improves workability
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
What is the plaster mix ratio?
About 4–5 parts plaster sand to 1 part cement, with lime added to reduce cracking and improve workability.
What ratio for bricklaying mortar?
Around 5–6 parts sand to 1 part cement for a workable, durable mortar.